Smith, J D 1973-07-06

Cotton farmer J. D. Smith discusses the bracero program and his role in sustaining it.

General Interview Information

Interviewee Name: J.D. Smith

Additional Parties Recorded: None

Date: July 06, 1973

Location: Needmore, Texas

Interviewer: Jeff Townsend

Length: 1 hour

Abstract

Tape 1, Side 1: Move from Oklahoma to Littlefield in 1925 recalled, Post-World War II use of Mexican-American farm workers reviewed, Lack of preparation for worker accommodation noted, Need for braceros, operation of bracero program examined, Changes in program cited, Explanation of origin of Plains Cotton Growers, Change from Pfeiffenberger to Johnson recalled, Attitude toward Labor Department, Workers from state of Chihuahua preferred, Discussion of Catholic opposition.

Tape 1, Side 2: Braceros’ medical needs discussed, Paternal aspects of the program claimed, Lack of social problems claimed, Speculation of effects of the program on the Mexican economy, Mexican-U. S. negotiations cited, Gradual decline of the program described, Labor Association crews mentioned, Appraisal of the bracero program given, Bracero program as foreign aid explained, Discussion of illegal Mexican workers (wetbacks), Attitudes toward Border Patrol expressed, Contributions of George H, Mahon cited, Interviewer’s note, Anecdote concerning bracero Jose Torres and others.

Range Dates: 1925-1973

Bulk Dates: 1940s-1960s

Access Information

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